In our first article on Kazakhstan travel, we have already covered the top destinations. In the second part of this Kazakhstan tourism guide, we will cover the other important aspects that you need to know before visiting the country. Without further ado, let’s dive right into it.

Getting There & Getting Around

Kazakhstan has two main international airports. Knowing which one to use and how to move between cities once you land makes a significant practical difference to how your trip unfolds.

Getting There: Flights Into Kazakhstan

Almaty International Airport (IATA: ALA) is the largest airport in Kazakhstan and is the primary entry point for most international travellers. Astana’s Nursultan Nazarbayev Airport (IATA: NQZ) is the second-largest. Together, the two airports handle over 75% of all arriving flights to the country. 

From Europe: Direct flights are available from Frankfurt, London Heathrow, Warsaw, Amsterdam, and Istanbul. Flight time from Western Europe is 6–7 hours. Connecting options via Gulf hubs like Doha, Dubai, or Abu Dhabi are also widely used. Air Astana operates year-round non-stop services from Frankfurt and London Heathrow to Almaty. 

From India: Direct flights are available from Mumbai and New Delhi, with a flight time of 3–4 hours. Air Astana and IndiGo Airlines operate these services. A new direct route from Goa (Mopa) to Almaty via FlyArystan is also scheduled to launch in 2026.

From Asia: Direct services are available from Seoul, Bangkok, Phuket, and Kuala Lumpur. China Southern, Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, flydubai, and Uzbekistan Airways are among the busiest carriers serving Kazakhstan from Asian hubs. 

Note for travellers from North America and Oceania: There are currently no direct services from the United States, Canada, Latin America, Japan, or Oceania. The most common routing is via Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Frankfurt (Lufthansa or Air Astana), or a Gulf hub.

Pro Tip: Booking 2–3 months in advance for summer travel (June–August) can save 30–50% on fares. Mid-week flights, especially Tuesday through Thursday, are typically cheaper than weekend departures.

Monument of Kenesary Khan in Astana

Visa: What You Need to Know Before You Fly to Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan operates one of the more open visa regimes in Central Asia, and it has expanded significantly in recent years. The country offers visa-free entry to citizens of over 60 countries for stays of up to 30 days. This is a part of a policy specifically designed to attract foreign direct investment and tourism. Citizens of most EU countries, the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and South Korea are included in this visa-free category. 

Indian citizens can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 14 consecutive days per visit, with a maximum total stay of 42 days within any 180 days. This policy, introduced in February 2022, remains in effect through 2025 and 2026, making Kazakhstan one of the most accessible Central Asian destinations for Indian travellers.

For stays longer than 14 days, an e-Visa is required. The e-Visa is processed entirely online through Kazakhstan’s official visa-migration portal and is available for tourism, business, or medical purposes.

Note, the towns of Baikonur and the surrounding areas in Kyzylorda Oblast, as well as the town of Gvardeyskiy near Almaty, are restricted areas that require special government permission to visit, regardless of your nationality.

Make sure to carry your original passport at all times when travelling near border areas such as Kolsai Lakes and Kaindy Lake. A passport copy is not accepted, and failing to present the original can result in a fine.

Getting Around in Kazakhstan: Domestic Transport Options

It’s important to understand that Kazakhstan is larger than Western Europe, and the distance between key destinations is enormous. So, transport choice matters here as much as destination choice.

For long inter-city journeys, flying is the fastest and often most practical option. The flight from Almaty to Astana takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Air Astana, FlyArystan, Scat Air, and Qazaq Air all operate this route, with multiple daily departures. 

Kazakhstan’s major cities are all connected by rail, and night trains in particular are a genuinely enjoyable way to travel. The train stock ranges from vintage Soviet-era carriages to relatively modern rolling stock. 

There are two distinct types of trains in Kazakhstan. The older Soviet-style trains travel at an average of around 50 km/h and are the only option on some routes, like Turkistan and Mangystau. The newer Tulpar-Talgo trains are faster and more comfortable. The Talgo connects Almaty and Astana in approximately 12 hours, with modern amenities. 

Train classes vary considerably in comfort and price. We suggest that you book train tickets at least a few weeks in advance in summer. Seats sell out well before departure, especially in the cheapest Platzkart class.  Both Almaty and Astana have two train stations in different parts of each city. Make sure to confirm which station your train departs from before booking a taxi. Keep an eye out for additional trains that are added during the peak season

Coming to city transport, both Almaty and Astana have reliable city bus networks. For faster urban movement, Yandex Go (Kazakhstan’s equivalent of Uber) is widely available. The price is fixed before booking, and payment is accepted by card or cash. For reaching the natural sites like Charyn Canyon, Altyn-Emel, and Kolsai Lakes, independent ground transport is either strongly recommended or outright essential.

Car hire is available from major international companies including Hertz, Europcar, Avis, and Autorent at Almaty, Astana, and Shymkent airports. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended. Since petrol stations are scarce outside of cities,  fill up whenever you see one, even if your tank is still relatively full. Worth mentioning that Kazakhstan enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy on drink driving.

Kazakhstan Food & Drink Guide

Experiencing the cuisine is definitely an integral part of your Kazakhstan trip. Kazakh cuisine is one of the most honest reflections of a country’s geography and history you will encounter anywhere. Kazakh food is deeply influenced by the nomadic past of its people. Meat has always dominated main meals, with mutton and horse featuring alongside numerous dairy products. 

The Dishes You Must Try

Beshbarmak

Beshbarmak, meaning “five fingers” in Turkic languages, is more than a meal. It is a cultural symbol. Traditionally eaten with the hands and shared communally, this hearty dish of boiled meat and flat noodles is a staple of Kazakh hospitality. In its traditional form, beshbarmak is prepared from salted horse meat, with unleavened dough, potatoes, onions, and spices. Today, a beef variant is also widespread. 

The serving of beshbarmak is steeped in ritual. The dish also varies by region. For example,  in western Kazakhstan, potatoes are added; near the Caspian Sea, fish replaces the meat entirely in a variant called “fishbarmak.” For a more traditional, less tourist-oriented experience, seek it out at local family-run restaurants rather than hotel restaurants, where the dish tends to be more authentic and significantly cheaper.

Kazy & Shuzhyk

Kazy is a tender homemade horsemeat sausage meticulously prepared according to family recipes for centuries. It plays a prominent role in Kazakh cuisine and appears at almost every holiday, typically sliced into circles and served on top of beshbarmak. Proper kazy is made from meat taken from a horse’s rib. Shuzhyk is a similar horsemeat sausage, slightly more spiced and often smoked.

Kuyrdak

Kuyrdak is usually served before the main course of beshbarmak. It is a roast meat dish combining tender chunks of lamb or beef with onions, potatoes, and spices such as cumin and paprika. According to Kazakh nutritionists, horse meat contains polyunsaturated fats close in structure to vegetable oils, making it one of the leaner red meat options on the table.

Laghman

Most of the approximately 275,000 Uyghurs in Central Asia live in Kazakhstan, and it was their ancestors who first introduced laghman to Kazakh cuisine. It is made from long, hand-pulled noodles, meat, usually lean beef, and vegetables. It has at least 60 variations, including vegetarian options, making it one of the most adaptable dishes for non-meat eaters travelling through Kazakhstan.

Baursak

Baursak are pieces of yeast dough deep-fried in oil. They have a mildly sweet taste, can be eaten as a standalone snack, and, as a rule, are served alongside a meal. A good hostess will serve them both with the main course and with tea. Bread holds a sacred place in Kazakh culture. It is considered disrespectful to throw bread away or even to cut it with a knife.

Koktal

A dish far less known internationally but worth seeking out. Koktal is a large fish of roughly five kilograms that is smoked on a wire rack in a special metal box. The fish is cleaned of entrails, but its scales are not removed. It is cut along the ridge and laid open like a book on the rack, with thinly chopped tomatoes and onions placed on top, and all smoked together. The cooked koktal is served on the wire rack itself. It is most commonly found near the Caspian Sea and in Almaty restaurants specialising in traditional cuisine.

Manti

Kazakh manti are steamed dumplings stuffed with minced meat. They are flavoured with onions and spices, cooked in a special tiered steamer, and often eaten with kaymak (sour cream) or a tomato sauce. For vegetarian travellers, manti can occasionally be found stuffed with potato rather than meat. Media Search Group

Pro Tip: Vegetarian options can be found in larger cities, but they are less common in rural areas. It is advisable to clarify dietary preferences in advance, as some dishes that appear meat-free may still contain animal broth or fats. In Almaty, Wine Cafe & Shop on Kazybek Bi Street has been specifically praised by vegetarian travellers for going beyond the standard eggplant substitution approach and offering genuine plant-based options in a relaxed setting.

Traditional dishes of Kazakhstan

The Drinks: Tea, Fermented Milk & More

Tea

Tea was introduced to Kazakhstan via the Silk Road as early as the second century BC, transported through Semirechye and South Kazakhstan by caravans from China. It remained a luxury for centuries due to its high cost, but by the late 19th century, tea-drinking customs had spread across all social classes. Eventually, it became a national tradition.

Kazakhstan is today one of the world’s top tea-consuming nations, averaging 1.54 kilograms per capita annually. Kazakhs drink approximately 60 million kilograms of tea each year. Black tea is the preferred choice, often served with milk. Shortly after arriving at a home or gathering, a guest is presented with a syi-ayak, an initial cup of tea symbolic of quenching thirst.

In mountain villages, a special type of black tea called shirchay is drunk. It’s a filling beverage that can include salt, milk, butter, flour, and even fried tail fat. A common variant called Tashkent tea is a blend of green and black tea with lemon and honey or sugar added.

Pro Tip: A British resident who has lived in Kazakhstan for seven years noted that even a stop intended to last five or ten minutes at a Kazakh friend’s home never ends without tea. What seemed like a short visit often stretched into hours. If you are a guest, accept the tea. Refusing it is considered impolite.

Kumiss

Kumiss is a drink made from fermented mare’s milk and has been proven to help in the treatment of gastritis, cardiovascular issues, and other diseases. It contains many vitamins, including thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), vitamin B12, biotin, vitamin C, and folic and pantothenic acid. According to a Kazakh nutritionist, one litre of kumiss contains as much vitamin C as 1.5 kilograms of oranges. Ordinary kumiss has an alcoholic content of around three percent, which is less than most beers.

Note that Kumiss is seasonal. It is produced primarily in summer when mares are lactating, and is most authentic when bought directly from farms in rural areas rather than pre-packaged in city supermarkets.

Shubat

Shubat is similar to kumiss but made from camel’s milk. It has a richer, creamier texture and is widely consumed in southern Kazakhstan, particularly in the Mangystau region, where camel herding remains common. Both kumiss and shubat contain beneficial bacteria and probiotic properties that support digestive health.

Pro Tip: Both kumiss and shubat have a sharp, sour, slightly fizzy taste that most first-time visitors find surprising. Start with a small amount and drink it cold. The flavour is significantly more palatable chilled. If you are visiting a nomadic family or a rural guesthouse and are offered either drink, accept it. The gesture of offering it is one of the highest expressions of Kazakh hospitality.

Where to Eat: City-by-City Recommendations

Throughout Kazakhstan, the concept of the dastarkhan, a covered table laden with food, is central to the culture of hospitality. It is believed that the richer the dastarkhan in a house, the more hospitable the owner and the more favourable the fate that smiles upon them. When a guest is invited to a yurt or home, they are seated in the honoured place opposite the entrance. The hosts immediately serve light treats, including kumiss, shubat, ayran, or tea with milk, alongside fresh baursak, flatbreads, kurt, and irimshik (cottage cheese).

In Almaty

Among traveller-recommended spots, Sandyq and Qaimaq are consistently cited for authentic Kazakh food, while As-Kazan is the top pick for Uyghur cuisine. For Korean barbecue, Masisso is a local favourite. Travel And Tour World.

Kishlak is a well-regarded traditional Central Asian restaurant with three dining rooms decorated in distinct ancient household settings, low teahouse-style tables, colourful carpets, and authentic dishware. The menu covers Uzbek, Uyghur, and Kazakh specialties. Goway Travel

For South Asian visitors, Spice Mantra on Bogenbai Batyr Street offers Indian, Chinese, and Thai cuisine with a focus on vegetarian options, importing spices directly from India. Goway Travel

In Astana

Daididau on Dinmukhamed Qonayev Street is a modern, upscale interpretation of Kazakh cuisine known for its refined presentation and rich flavours. It is listed in La Liste’s Top 1000 Restaurants Worldwide. Qazaq Gourmet, located on the 25th floor of a tower on Mangilik Yel Avenue, serves Kazakh and Central Asian cuisine with panoramic views over Astana. Travel And Tour World

Kazakh Yurts

Practical Kazakhstan Travel Tips

Is travelling to Kazakhstan safe for solo travellers?

Yes, by most measurable standards. The vast majority of tourists in Kazakhstan report feeling very safe. The people are generally welcoming and generous to foreign visitors. The US State Department rates Kazakhstan Level 1 — “Exercise Normal Precautions”. It’s the same advisory applied to countries like Japan and Switzerland. Urban petty theft happens, but violent crime against tourists is uncommon.

If you are a solo female traveller, know that Kazakh men do not tend to approach foreign women easily. Cat-calling is not common in Kazakh culture. That said, solo female travellers have occasionally reported being propositioned by Kazakh men they had just met. Dressing modestly in rural areas and avoiding poorly lit streets late at night are the two most consistently cited precautions.

In general, Kazakh people are famously warm and hospitable, and many travellers are surprised by how safe they feel. It is common to leave your phone on a café table without worry in the major cities.

Do I need a visa to visit Kazakhstan?

It depends on your nationality. As of September 2025, citizens of Australia, Canada, China, all EU countries, Gulf states (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait), Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Turkey, the UK, the US, and Vietnam can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for stays of up to 30 days. Indian citizens are eligible for visa-free entry for up to 14 days per visit, with a maximum of 42 days within any 180 days.

For stays beyond your visa-free allowance, an e-Visa is available online. The Kazakhstan tourist e-Visa is valid for a single visit of up to 30 days, two visits of up to 30 days each within 60 days, or three visits of up to 30 days each within 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry and have at least one blank page.

Important: All visitors, whether arriving by air or land, must fill in a registration card at passport control on arrival. This card will be stamped twice. Keep it with you throughout your stay. If you do not have it when you leave, you may face a fine or deportation. Always check the latest visa guidelines before travel.

Is Kazakhstan cheap to travel in?

Like most of Central Asia, travel in Kazakhstan is relatively affordable. A good meal costs around $5 in a local restaurant, a dormitory bed in a hostel costs around $10, and a train ticket costs roughly $15 per 1,000 kilometres. On a backpacker budget, daily costs including accommodation, food, and local transport run approximately $30–$40. A mid-range traveller spending on private hotels and sit-down restaurants can expect to spend $60–$100 per day. For solo travellers looking for cheaper options, there is a range of accommodation from budget-friendly hostels to capsule hotels and Airbnb options.

Tipping is not compulsory as a service charge is usually included in restaurant and hotel bills. However, it is becoming more common as tourism grows. Taxis and trains have fixed charges already built into the price. Solo travellers can choose shared 4WD transport to Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, or Altyn-Emel. When split between three or four people, the per-person cost comes down to a fraction of a private hire. This can be arranged informally through hostel noticeboards or apps like GAFF.

What language do people speak in Kazakhstan? Will I get by with English?

Kazakh and Russian are the official languages of Kazakhstan. English is limited outside of tourist hubs. In Almaty and Astana, younger residents and those in the hospitality industry are increasingly likely to speak some English. Outside the two major cities, Russian is the dominant working language, and English proficiency drops sharply.

Traveller tip: Learning a few basic phrases in Kazakh or Russian goes a long way in making a positive impression. Learning a few simple words like “hello” (Salam in Kazakh, Zdravstvuyte in Russian) and “thank you” (Rakhmet in Kazakh, Spasibo in Russian) is a good idea. Google Translate’s camera function works well for menus, signs, and transport information in Cyrillic script.

Can I use my card everywhere, or do I need cash?

Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most larger restaurants, hotels, and shops in Almaty and Astana. However, cash is still essential for bazaars, rural guesthouses, national park entry fees, and small vendors outside cities. Having a local SIM card with a Kazakh number is essential for using ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go, which require local phone verification. ATMs branded Bankomat are widely available in cities. But carry sufficient KZT cash before heading to natural sites.

Do I need travel insurance for Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan is an adventurous destination. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Insurance covering hiking, canyons, and remote region travel is particularly important given the country’s terrain. Medical facilities outside of private hospitals in major cities are limited, and evacuation costs from remote areas can be substantial without coverage. Ensure your policy covers emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and adventure activities if you are planning natural site itineraries.

Kazakh shepherd with dogs and a horse

Is there anything I should avoid doing culturally?

One thing is, do not refuse food or drink when offered. Refusing hospitality is considered rude. At minimum, accept a small amount even if you are not hungry. Do not point with your finger at people or objects. Instead, use your whole hand to gesture, which is considered more respectful. Do not show the soles of your feet, particularly when sitting, as this is considered disrespectful in Kazakh culture.

Avoid discussing politics or sensitive historical topics. Kazakhstan has a complex history, and political discussions can lead to uncomfortable situations. Authorities restrict photography near government buildings, military installations, airports, and some shops. So, ask before photographing in these areas. In homes and mosques, dress modestly and remove shoes when asked. Handshakes are common, but should be lighter with women unless they offer their hand first.

Is it safe to photograph people and places?

Generally, yes, but with important caveats. Always ask before taking portraits, especially in prayer spaces or rural communities where photography can feel intrusive. Authorities actively restrict photography near government buildings, military sites, and airports. The rule of thumb is to ask permission first in any official or sensitive setting. Most Kazakh people in everyday settings are happy to be photographed once asked.

Are there any entry restrictions I should be aware of?

Yes, two specific ones worth noting. First, you must receive permission from the Kazakh government before travelling to certain areas bordering China and cities close to military installations. Check the Ministry of Internal Affairs website for the current list of restricted zones before your trip.

Second, Kazakhstan and Russia have law enforcement cooperation agreements. Russian authorities may request that Kazakh counterparts give increased scrutiny to former or current US government and military personnel with prior work in Russia. In some cases, Russian law enforcement may request that Kazakh authorities detain US citizens upon entry or exit under mutual assistance agreements. This is specifically relevant for US government or military-affiliated travellers.

Can I drink alcohol in Kazakhstan?

Yes. Although most Kazakhs identify as Muslim, the country is a secular state, and alcohol is widely available. Vodka is a common and inexpensive drink. Almaty also has a growing bar scene with quality cocktails that have won competitions across Central Asia. Alcohol is sold in supermarkets, restaurants, and bars in all major cities without restriction for adults.

What should I pack for Kazakhstan?

Pack layers for mountain temperature swings of 10–15°C between city and altitude, a sun hat, SPF sunscreen, 1.5–2 litres of water per person for day trips, and sturdy walking shoes. For religious sites, pack a scarf or shawl. If visiting in winter, add microspikes for icy trails. A windproof shell, breathable hiking shoes for canyons, and electrolyte tablets for high-altitude or steppe routes are also recommended by experienced travellers.

By Suvajit Banerjee

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